Can You Get a DUI on a Skateboard in Nevada?

Many people wonder if riding a skateboard after drinking can result in a DUI charge in Nevada. The short answer is no—skateboards don’t qualify as vehicles under Nevada’s DUI laws. However, that doesn’t mean you’re necessarily in the clear if you decide to skateboard while under the influence. Other criminal charges may apply, which can still affect your record and your future.

Whether you’ve been charged with a DUI or you’re facing other criminal charges, an experienced defense attorney can help protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome. 

What Is a Vehicle Under Nevada’s DUI Laws?

To understand whether DUI charges can apply to skateboarding, you first have to know how Nevada law defines a vehicle. Under NRS 482.135, a vehicle is “every device in, upon or by which any person or property is or may be transported or drawn upon a public highway.” That definition sounds broad, but the law goes on to make several important exclusions:

• Devices moved by human power or used exclusively upon stationary rails or tracks
• Mobile homes or commercial coaches 
• Electric bicycles
• Electric personal assistive mobility devices (for example, electric wheelchairs)
• Electric scooters
• A mobile carrying device 
• A personal delivery device 

Note that the statute specifically excludes devices moved by human power, like skateboards and bicycles. This means that Nevada’s DUI laws only apply to vehicles that are not human-powered. Since a skateboard relies entirely on the rider’s movement and gravity, it doesn’t qualify as a vehicle under the law.

Generally, DUI laws apply to cars, trucks, motorcycles, and other motor vehicles capable of operating on highways. These vehicles pose significant risks when operated by someone under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Can I Be Charged with a DUI While Riding a Skateboard?

You cannot be charged with DUI for riding a skateboard while intoxicated, because a skateboard is not legally defined as a vehicle in Nevada. DUI laws are written to apply to people operating motor vehicles on public roads or highways. Since skateboards don’t meet that definition, the statute doesn’t apply.

However, just because you can’t be charged with a DUI doesn’t mean you’re completely free to ride your skateboard after drinking without facing consequences. Police officers can still stop you if you create a safety hazard or disturb others. 

For example, if you ride your skateboard into the street and cause a driver to swerve, you could face charges for reckless endangerment. If you’re under 21 and ingested alcohol before getting on your skateboard, you could face underage drinking charges. The bottom line is that while DUI doesn’t apply, skating while intoxicated can still lead to legal trouble.

Possible Criminal Charges for Skateboarding While Drinking

Even though DUI doesn’t cover skateboards, several other criminal charges could apply if you drink and skate. Police officers have discretion in how they handle these situations, and the exact charge may depend on where you are, how you’re behaving, and whether you put anyone else in danger. Below are some common charges that can come up.

Disturbing the Peace / Breach of Peace

If you cause a public disturbance while skateboarding under the influence, you may face disturbing the peace charges. This law covers conduct like fighting, shouting, using offensive language in public, or otherwise disturbing others.

This crime is typically a misdemeanor. However, a conviction can still result in fines, possible jail time, and a criminal record. Something as simple as yelling at strangers or skating loudly through a quiet neighborhood after drinking could be enough for police to cite you.

Trespassing

If you enter property without permission while skating, you could face trespassing charges. Many skaters look for empty parking lots, construction sites, or private areas to ride—but if alcohol is involved, your judgment may be impaired. This can make trespassing more likely.

Trespassing is also a misdemeanor, but a conviction can still lead to criminal penalties. In some cases, it can make it harder to defend against future charges if you’re cited again.

Underage Drinking

If you’re under 21 and caught drinking before or while skateboarding, you could face charges under Nevada’s underage drinking laws. These charges can lead to fines, community service, and mandatory alcohol education classes.

Underage drinking charges can have long-term consequences, especially if you’re applying to jobs, colleges, or professional programs. Employers and educational institutions may disqualify you based on your criminal record.

Reckless Endangerment

If you put someone else at risk of injury while skateboarding under the influence, police may charge you with reckless endangerment. It’s a crime to recklessly create a substantial risk of death or serious bodily harm to another person.

For example, if you skateboard into a busy street after drinking and a driver swerves to avoid you, you could face this charge. Unlike some of the other offenses listed, reckless endangerment can be charged as a felony. Depending on the specific charges and circumstances, you could face far more serious penalties, ranging from prison time to steep fines.

How Adras & Altig Can Help If You Are Facing DUI or Other Alcohol-Related Criminal Charges

If you’ve been arrested for DUI or for another alcohol-related charge, you need experienced legal representation from an attorney who understands how Nevada courts handle these cases. Even though DUI doesn’t apply to skateboards, you could still face charges that carry fines, probation, or jail time. A conviction could also stay on your record for years to come. Having an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side is important.

Every case is different, but you shouldn’t face criminal charges without an attorney who can explain your options. When you work with Adras & Altig, our team can review your case and work to negotiate reduced penalties or dismissals whenever possible.

Contact a DUI Lawyer in Las Vegas Today

If you wondered, “Can you get a DUI on a skateboard?” now you know that, under Nevada law, the answer is no. However, drinking and skateboarding can still result in criminal charges, especially if your actions put others at risk or involve underage drinking.

The lawyers at Adras & Altig have experience defending clients in DUI and alcohol-related cases throughout Las Vegas and Nevada. Contact us today to discuss your case and learn how we can protect your rights.